Public Statements

South Carolina Takes Top Spot for Jobs Linked to Foreign Investment

Press Release

South Carolina continues to stand out as a top destination for foreign investment, ranking first in attracting jobs through foreign investment, according to an analysis by IBM-Plant Location International (IBM-PLI). The Palmetto State ranked above Texas and North Carolina, which were ranked second and third, respectively, in the 2012 report.

"It is exciting to see South Carolina once again recognized as the "it' place for business investment. Foreign firms have played and continue to play a key role in our state's economy. We have worked hard to show companies from around the globe that South Carolina is the place to put down roots and do business, and this ranking is another indication of our success," said Gov. Nikki Haley.

Each year, IBM-PLI publishes a report titled Global Location Trends looking at foreign investment around the globe. The data are derived from IBM's Global Investment Locations Database (GILD) which tracks announcements by companies on their location decisions throughout the year. The numbers in the new report were based on data gathered in 2011.

"South Carolina is just right for business, and plenty of international companies know it. Hundreds of foreign firms employ tens of thousands of residents throughout our state, creating wealth and helping make the communities they're in sustainable. The IBM-PLI report's ranking is another confirmation that people are sitting up and taking notice of the economic development successes we've had here in the Palmetto State," said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.

The report also looked at global trends and events that affect investment by companies. The latest edition of the Global Location Trends report can be downloaded from IBM's website at www.ibm.com/gbs/pli.